Saudi officials greeted Trump with an elaborate display of hospitality when he arrived in Saudi Arabia for his Gulf tour.
A lavender-colored carpet, along with fighter jets overhead and riders on Arabian horses. This marked the distinctive royal welcome.
Saudi Arabia unveils lavender carpet for Trump
When President Trump arrived in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, he stepped onto a lavender-colored carpet.
This made a special welcome.
This moment was just one part of the lavish greeting, which included a fighter-jet escort and Arabian horse riders.
The lavender carpet is a key feature of Saudi Arabia’s royal protocol, used to greet high-profile dignitaries.
The significance of the lavender carpet in Saudi royal protocol
In 2021, Saudi Arabia replaced its traditional red carpets with lavender as part of a new national identity effort.
The royal family aimed to redefine its cultural symbols, celebrating the country’s rich heritage and modern aspirations.
The lavender color is inspired by Saudi Arabia’s wildflowers.
Additionally, it symbolizes generosity and growth in the kingdom’s desert landscape.
Saudi Arabia’s desert dunes transform into fields of lavender, basil, and the flowering shrub Germander every spring.
“Lavender in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia is associated with blossoming wildflowers that carpet the kingdom’s desert landscapes in the spring and is a symbol of Saudi generosity,” the report said.
Lavender carpets symbolize Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and economic growth
In addition, the lavender carpet also reflects Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, a plan to diversify the country’s oil-dependent economy.
The vibrant color represents the transformation of Saudi Arabia, moving away from oil reliance and toward economic growth and sustainability.
The carpet’s design features the traditional Al Sadu textile, a symbol of Saudi cultural heritage.
Additionally, the intricate geometric patterns are handwoven by Bedouin women. It showed the country’s craftsmanship.
In 2020, the Al Sadu textile was recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
A modern tradition with deep cultural roots
The lavender carpet first appeared in 2021, rolled out to welcome Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.
Since then, the carpet has become a symbol of Saudi diplomacy and has been used for state receptions and other official occasions.
While, the lavish and thoughtful welcome for President Trump highlights Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural identity and international stature.
Previously, Donald Trump receives uncommon royal welcome during visit to Saudi Arabia for Crown Prince meeting.
On Tuesday, May 13, U.S. President Donald Trump landed in Riyadh to kick off a four-day diplomatic tour of the Middle East.
His arrival was marked by a rare and highly symbolic display of honor.
The Royal Saudi Air Force deployed F-15 fighter jets to escort Air Force One as it neared the Saudi capital.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman personally greeted Trump upon his arrival. Saudi officials rarely offer such a warm welcome under royal protocol.
Additionally, It included a military escort and a direct airport reception by the Crown Prince.
Such honors are usually reserved for the kingdom’s most trusted and valued allies.